Socko was born in Seoul, Korea, 1993. Socko studied at The School of Visual Arts in New York and continues to work as an independent artist in the city till today. Socko’s new work explores imagination through the perspective of the fictional character Dough. Inspired by 90s cartoons and toys, Socko takes viewers to his imaginary world filled with vibrant colors and visually challenging, raw textures.

 

Socko’s conceptualization behind his new work is to create something that everyone can resonate with, hence the creation of the imaginary character, ‘Dough' with dolly eyes and childlike expressions. Dough encapsulates a profound sense of innocence and cast a nostalgia back to the innocent age as an escape from the current context. The bright color's pastel impression stands in strong contrast to the even brighter artificial hair color. Using pastel hues, Socko can produce a stunningly rich, delicate texture, sustaining an aesthetic space for viewers to enjoy the pure joy of texture and color.

 

Socko’s technique demonstrates how the deep, rich hues may shine brilliantly and are easily blendable when used properly. He even gains himself more creative freedom by using acrylic to multiply the texture and consistency. For this reason, his work may appear three-dimensional for the two media used.

 

Socko’s works have been exhibited in Paris, Seoul and Los Angeles. Most recently, his works are seen in the group exhibition “On the Road to Basel” and “All is not What it Seems” at Lorin Gallery, Los Angeles.